Sports Medicine common overuse injuries Overview
Introduction
- It is vital that you focus on proper joint alignment of the area of the body which interacts with the ground... The Foot. If the foot is unstable, everything else becomes unstable and abnormal motion balance and forces created by poor foot mechanics, moves up the leg, (ankle, knee, hip, pelvis, spine). Focus is on the foot.
- The foot has two major functions.
- Absorb impact load properly (heel contact to midstance)
- Rearfoot and MIdfoot joints lock changing the foot from a absorber of shock to Stability and Rigidity to properly transfer load properly
Midstance into the propulsive phase of gait.
If the foot cannot perform these basic functions then abnormal pronatory (collapsing) of the foot occurs and this ex essive motion moves up the leg causing other structureds to take on this excessive load.
- Absorb impact load properly (heel contact to midstance)
- Rearfoot and MIdfoot joints lock changing the foot from a absorber of shock to Stability and Rigidity to properly transfer load properly
Midstance into the propulsive phase of gait.
Common Traumatic Injuries
- Shin Splints
- Achilles Tendoniitis
- Posterior Tibial Tenosynovitis medial ankle
- Anterior Tibial Tendoniitis
- Medial Colateral knee pain
- Laterial Knee Pain
- Iliotibial band syndrome
- Sciatica
- Spinal Disk Pain with or without radiculapathy (nerve pain down the leg)
Common Sports Injuries and Their Prevention
Participating in sports offers numerous benefits for physical and mental health. However, the risk of injuries is also present, especially in high-impact sports. Sports injuries can range from minor sprains to severe fractures, and they can affect any part of the body.
Foot and Ankle Injuries
Foot and ankle injuries are among the most common in sports, particularly in activities that involve running, jumping, and sudden changes in direction. Ankle sprains, caused by excessive twisting or rolling of the ankle, are the most prevalent. Other common foot and ankle injuries include Achilles tendon rupture, plantar fasciitis, and stress fractures.
Leg Injuries
Leg injuries often involve the muscles and tendons that support the lower body. Shin splints, caused by repetitive stress on the muscles and bones of the lower leg, are common among runners. Calf strains, hamstring strains, and patellofemoral pain syndrome (runner's knee) are also frequently encountered.
Knee Injuries
Knee injuries are among the most serious and disabling sports injuries. Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tears, often caused by sudden changes in direction or landing from a jump, are particularly concerning. Other common knee injuries include meniscal tears, patellar dislocation, and knee bursitis.
Hip Injuries
Hip injuries, while less common than other sports injuries, can still be significant. Hip flexor strains, caused by sudden or forceful stretching of the hip muscles, are common among athletes involved in kicking or sprinting sports. Groin strains, involving the muscles of the inner thigh, are also prevalent.
Spine Injuries
Spine injuries in sports are relatively rare but can have devastating consequences. Sprains and strains of the back muscles are the most common spine injuries in sports. More serious injuries, such as herniated discs and spinal fractures, are less frequent but can result in long-term pain and disability.
Prevention Strategies
Numerous strategies can help prevent sports injuries:
- Proper Warm-up and Cool-down: Warming up prepares the muscles and joints for activity, while cooling down helps prevent muscle soreness and stiffness.
- Appropriate Strength Training: Strengthening the muscles and tendons around the joints can significantly reduce the risk of injury.
- Proper Footwear and Equipment: Using the right type of footwear and equipment for the specific sport can provide optimal support and protection.
- Gradual Progression of Activity: Avoid sudden increases in intensity or duration of training. Gradually increase the workload to allow the body to adapt.
- Listen to Your Body: Pay attention to signs of pain or fatigue. Take rest days when needed to prevent overuse injuries.
Treatment:
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